By definition, and tradition, an elopement was typically a marriage conducted without the knowledge of the couple's family and friends. The couple would ordinarily escape to some unknown destination to “tie the knot,” then return home to share the big news.
Thoughts seem to be changing and often nowadays, an elopement is increasingly thought of as a small wedding which takes place away from where the couple currently live and often, a handful of guests may be included.
We checked with some ALHI properties to see what they have for elopement weddings.
Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa
All 309 spacious guestrooms and suites in this stunning resort signal glamour, luxury and fantasy. Situated on a private beach along seven acres of Florida’s Atlantic shores, this recipient of the coveted Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star and AAA 5-Diamond Awards is a favorite with couples in search of tranquility and romance.
An oceanfront courtyard promises the perfect setting for an intimate sun-kissed wedding ceremony, complete with the postcard perfect backdrop of mesmerizing ocean waves.
Secure memories of that special moment in a colorful beachfront cabana or in a host of other private venues customized just for the wedding couple.
For the perfect finale, the posh Commander-in-Chief Suite offers the ultimate honeymoon haven with panoramic ocean views and a wraparound balcony.
Kempinski Seychelles Resort Baie Lazare
Known for its incomparable beauty with soft sandy beaches and stunning scenery, this island gem in the Indian Ocean offers a memorable elopement escape.
Located on the southern end of Mahé, this indulgent retreat promises a wide variety of facilities and activities, including two UNESCO Heritage Sites to explore and is the recipient of “World's Most Romantic Destination” for 2020 in the Grand Final of the “World Travel Award.”
This beach-front paradise, nestled in a secluded bay at the foothills of a magnificent mountain range, offers a private haven for newlyweds. A selection of 148 private rooms and suites set in expansive tropical grounds, have been designed to blend harmoniously with the natural environment.
For total relaxation, the spa beckons with a diverse array of treatments with six rooms, including a couples’ treatment room, all tucked into traditional bungalows boasting a serene view of lush tropical gardens.
This luxurious resort is an ideal location for those seeking a world-class romantic island getaway. Whether for an intimate ceremony for two or a festive celebration with family and friends, they offer a selection of outdoor and indoor venues for nuptials and tailor-made wedding packages.
The Charleston Place
Located in the heart of historic downtown Charleston, this iconic landmark has been luring guests to its charming portals since opening in 1986.
Luxurious décor blending Old-World charm with modern-day elegance can be found throughout 433 perfectly appointed rooms and suites, 72 of which are at Club Level featuring additional special amenities and heightened privacy.
Sweeping city views offer a glimpse of nearby attractions including the City Market, antique shops, museums, art galleries and historic sites. All are easily accessible via complimentary bicycles or open-air Mokes, allowing you to leisurely cruise the historic downtown.
On-site dining delights range from award-winning fine cuisine, Lowcountry favorites, casual poolside fare, gastropub specialties and more.
Facials, massages and holistic treatments for both men and women promise R&R in 10 treatment rooms, including two specifically for couples.
A popular wedding destination, Charleston offers a gorgeous, storied setting for weddings in every style, size, and season and The Charleston Place offers a selection of venues.
Prince Waikiki
A longtime favorite, Hawaii continues to be a top ranked destination for weddings, thanks to the tropical weather, picturesque landscape and general ease of domestic travel it offers.
While many couples dream of an outdoor ceremony on Hawaiian shores, this contemporary waterfront resort has launched a new partnership with a local luxury sea charter company to offer a truly one-of-a-kind elopement onboard the 61-foot wooden yacht, Vida Mia. Built in 1929 the ship has been recently restored to her original elegance and now is the scene of intimate affairs, bustling parties, and unforgettable moments on the water.
Newly engaged couples seeking a non-traditional wedding will enjoy the Prince Waikiki’s exclusive new Elopement/Private Wedding Package. For intimate groups of 10 people or less, couples can book a romantic sunset elopement on the luxury yacht with stunning floral arrangements and the unbeatable backdrop of the Pacific Ocean. The package offers a grazing table offering premium charcuterie-style selections, wine pairings, premium bar service and a customizable wedding cake, in addition to an officiant and photographer (with drone capabilities) and more.
Grotto Bay Beach Resort & Spa
Sitting on a lush tropical 21-acre estate encompassing dramatic caves and woodland preserves along scenic Bailey’s Bay, this luxurious resort features 201 rooms in 11 cottages and multiple unique settings with packages to fit any wedding dream no matter how large, or small.
For an intimate ceremony, the Purity Pergola offers a unique locale above a scenic lagoon. The “Intimate Affair” package includes a minister, photographer, collection of marriage certificate, certificate signing, bridal bouquet and boutonniere and more. A bottle of house sparkling wine, a six- inch, one-tier wedding cake, and two witnesses for elopements are also included. A private, four-course dinner add to the magical moment.
For a special treat, the 500,000-year-old Natura Cave Spa menu offers many soothing treatments where one can relax in pontoons floating on the water while lying side-by-side enjoying either a massage, body wrap or scrub as ones listens to the drops fall from the stalactites above.
Jekyll Island Club Resort
Georgia’s historic Jekyll Island Club Resort melds the perfect combination of classic Southern charm and sweeping beach vistas to create the ideal location for a premiere elopement experience.
With five historic buildings of the Jekyll Island Club and the AAA 4-Diamond suites of Jekyll Ocean Club, guests are assured a perfect, relaxing getaway in any of the 200 beautifully decorated guestroom and suites.
The Elopement Package at the Jekyll Island Club Resort is ideal for couples looking for a private wedding experience or an intimate event to share with a few close friends and family members. Couples can have a stress-free experience with this package as it includes a ceremony venue and officiant, a post-ceremony dinner, flowers, photography, a two-tier wedding cake, champagne, and accommodations for two-nights. The package must be booked within six months of the elopement date for up to 18 guests.
The Meritage Resort & Spa
In addition to luxury accommodations, this AAA 4-Diamond resort located at the gateway to California’s rolling Napa Valley houses 467 chic guestrooms and suites along with a large selection of unique spaces for wedding ceremonies.
The best of the Wine Country is on display without ever leaving the grounds, from on-site wine and beer tasting rooms to the award-winning Spa Terra.
The Food & Wine Center allows cooking alongside your new spouse, the perfect wedding concept for foodies. After the "I do's" are said and done, the wedding party will experience an expert-led cooking or baking class for a fun and engaging group activity.
Of special note, Estate Cave, the only venue of its kind in the Wine Country, features an intimate venue in a unique barrel-shaped ceiling illuminated by wrought iron chandeliers. This unique space has smaller side rooms perfect for an intimate, romantic dinner.
For sweeping vineyard views and refreshing drinks and light bite, Vintner’s Rooftop Terrace beckons.